An implementation plan is, by definition, the actions taken to carry out or execute the project plan. The basic objective of any plan is to define and communicate goals and timelines to ensure that everyone has buy-in and shares the commitment to the goal.
When it comes to creating an implementation plan, there are several ways to design one that is well-suited for your organization. That’s because there really is not a one-size-fits-all solution for creating an implementation plan.
7 Steps for Creating the Perfect Implementation Plan
In an effective plan, the project management needs assessment must be considered, and a variation of the following steps included:
Step 1 – Define Required Outcomes
The project goal centers on the entire implementation. It gives the team strength to push to accomplish the desired performance goals by the time goal by employing the agreed-upon resource goal. The measure for goal achievement must be clearly defined and success, or the degree of success, verifiable and quantifiable.
Step 2 – Define Ownership for Outcomes
Allocate an owner for each outcome. They should be motivated to achieve the goals to ensure the project team is accountable. Look for personnel with a vested interest in achieving the outcome and demonstrate the commitment to success.
Step 3 – Determine Actions to Accomplish the Outcomes
This is where you document the actions that will result in success. This is the most practical portion and very straightforward.
Questions to ask here include:
- Who should be involved?
- What resources are necessary?
- What milestones should be accomplished, and by when?
- How often should those milestones be reviewed?
- What setbacks may occur?
- Are there any contingencies or dependencies, and how do we account for them?
All of these must have a measurable marker, or dates will be missed.
Step 4 – Define Budgets, Roles, and Measures
Armed with the list of actions, the next step is to define the roles and responsibilities, timelines, and budget. Remember the adage that ‘one person is responsible or no one is responsible.
Tips for Establishing the Budget
- Budgeting is an intimidating process, but it needn’t be if you follow these simple steps:
- Know your risks
- Define contingencies
- Create resource buffers for time, money, and personnel
Step 5 – Define the Tracking System
Regardless of whether you have a sophisticated tracking system or a simple tracking sheet, there should be a single place to update progress on the plan. You don’t have to create the implementation plan on your own. There are countless project management resources that effectively support the planning, management, execution, and evaluation of project plans.
Step 6 – Implement a Project Management Methodology
The project management methodology provides control, structure, and process to help with the management of time, resources, and efforts. Pick one and stick with it.
Step 7 – Review and Revise as Needed
Through the review process, you learn what worked and what didn’t. This allows for simple identification of areas for improvement.
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